Debra S. Mendez

Debra Sue Mendez (Leffler) Funeral Rosary and Mass will be held at Christ The King Catholic Church, 1800 Bedford Way on Thursday January 29, 2026 at 9:30AM

Debra "Debe" Sue Mendez (Leffler) passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026. She was born on April 11, 1951, in Jacksonville, Illinois, and had been a beloved resident of the Kern County area since 1973.

Debe was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and a sister in Christ to friends and neighbors alike. She spent her younger years fishing and camping alongside her husband, Gary Mendez, with whom she shared a beautiful marriage until his passing 27 years ago. Though she lived a lifetime without him by her side, her love for Gary never wavered.

She treasured beach vacations, trips to Dome Rock, and magical Disneyland adventures with her children and grandchildren, creating memories that will be held dear for generations to come. In her final five years, Debe returned devoutly to the Catholic faith, becoming an active member of her local parish. The Stations of the Cross and the season of Lent held special meaning in her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ.

Debe was a dedicated stay-at-home mother who later worked as a housekeeper for many years at McNally's Fairview Lodge and San Joaquin Hospital, where she touched many lives with her warmth and care.

She leaves behind- Children: Gary Mendez Jr., Jennifer Phillips, and Gregory Mendez, all of Oildale, California

Grandchildren: Hailey Mendez, Garrett Mendez, Kayla Mendez, Avery Mendez, and Hunter Phillips

Siblings: James Leffler, William Leffler, and Jon Leffler

Niece and Nephew: Nikki Leffler-Coutlas and Grant Leffler

Your soul is now with our Creator, Jesus Christ, and reunited with your beloved husband, Gary Mendez. You will be loved and cherished forever and ever.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caring and compassionate staff at Mercy Hospital Southwest and Downtown ICU unit, who provided exceptional care during her final month.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ The King Catholic Church, Oildale.